Guernsey

Like the rest of the Channel Islands, Guernsey is steeped in history. The islands were part of the French mainland until the end of the Ice Age and although Guernsey is geographically much closer to France than the UK, it is loyal to the British crown. This loyalty can be traced back to Norman times when the Channel Islands first became part of the English realm and forms the basis of the island’s constitution.

In the 1800's, as with Jersey wealthy French residents escaping the revolution made the islands their home. Many of the town houses there today were built during this era along with 16 forts and 58 coastal batteries to defend the island from the French prior to the Battle of Waterloo. Today the island is self-governing and enjoys the same level of independence it has had since first becoming associated with England.

Guernsey also has its own stamps and currency, and while British pounds can be used on the island, Guernsey pounds cannot be used in the UK.

Guernsey people enjoy their free time. Being an island, with a warmer climate than the UK, much time is spent outside, on the beach, walking the cliffs, island hopping or eating ‘al fresco’. The Island has great sporting facilities and a programme of sporting events throughout the year.
 

There are numerous rare species of wildlife not seen on mainland Britain. Nature reserves and migrating birds are just some of the natural treasures waiting to be discovered and with 449 flowering plants recorded in January alone, the islands are in bloom all year round.

The annual "Muratti" the inter-island football match is considered the sporting event of the year—although, due to broadcast coverage, it no longer attracts the crowds of spectators, travelling between the islands that occurred during the 20th century.